Possible delays now Sheffield’s Probate Registry Office closes

The recent closure of Sheffield’s Probate Registry office – which offered probate help and advice - could lead to delays around cases say Sheffield lawyers.

The office, based at the Law Courts on West Bar, has now closed its doors with all new enquiries being asked to call, or post information, to the Leeds Probate Registry Office at York Place.

Probate work has been slowly moving away from the Sheffield office which used to open Monday to Friday and helped individuals apply for, and obtain, grants of probate.

Suzanne Porter, director and head of the private client team at Wake Smith Solicitors, said: “Individuals are now being asked to contact another Yorkshire office for advice. This is a loss of vital resources in the city and a real shame for the people of Sheffield, potentially creating delays.

“House sales cannot complete until the probate grant is issued and sales can fall through with the delay in obtaining the grant leading to additional upkeep costs and stress all round.

“One way to avoid delays is to come direct to the private client at Wake Smith. This can be an extremely complex area of law, especially if charities are beneficiaries as they scrutinise the administration period work to a high level. Our advice is seek professional help from a solicitor as doing it yourself could lead to errors.”

Sheffield is among a number of regional offices to close including Birmingham which shut in August due to probate being handled by the new Courts & Tribunals Service Centres (CTSCs) as part of the HM Courts & Tribunals Service Reform Programme to modernise courts and tribunals.

For further information on private client services please contact Suzanne Porter on [email protected]